Patio Doors Repairs
Patio doors provide homeowners with natural fresh air and light, and they enhance the value of a house. However, over time they can develop issues that require immediate attention.
Understanding how patio doors function can help homeowners communicate more effectively with contractors about problems they encounter. Here are a few of the most common problems with patio doors:
Rollers that aren't aligned properly
It's not always easy to open a patio sliding door. Most of these sluggish sliding patio doors can be fixed easily by a little oiling and cleaning, unless a structural problem is present. The most common culprit is dirt on the lower track, which could cause the rollers to rub against the track at the bottom and cause them to be misaligned. In this instance you'll need to wash the track and apply a light coat of lubricant so that the rollers glide smoothly.
The misalignment could also be because of wear or damage in the hinges that join the door panels that house some of the rollers; springs either torsion or extension and cables that raise the door. When they are damaged or worn, may affect roller alignment and lead to resistance and other issues, such as a heavier feeling door or higher energy bills. Regular maintenance checks and inspections by a professional will ensure that these elements are in good working order to keep your patio doors functioning smoothly.
Set up a crow’s foot at one end, and use the trammingstick to move across the rollers. Note the distance each roller travels. Repeat the process on the other end of the track, then divide by 2 to get a reading of the parallelism of the rollers (Photo 1). This method isn't as accurate as using pi tapes to measure diameter directly, but it's much more efficient and less time-consuming than measuring each individual rail with a level, or carpenter's level.
You can also check the alignment of the rollers by taking off the head stop. This is an elongated plate that is situated at the bottom of the door jamb. It stops the rollers. This will require removing any removable grilles or shades and, in the event that the door is heavy, you should seek assistance with this step. After taking off the head stop, remove the head track adjusters screws by securing them with the screwdriver. After reinstalling the assembly and aligning each roller adjustment screw to the hole that it is accessible through, and tapping it with the hammer.
Dirty or damaged tracks
Patio doors that slide open are magnets for debris, dirt and other elements outside. They also are susceptible to misalignment, as well as other issues that may require professional repairs. In order to extend the life of your patio door, finding and fixing these issues in the early stages is crucial.
One of the main reasons for sliding patio doors to malfunction is dirty tracks. Over time, dirt food debris, pet hair, and yard debris can become trapped in the tiny spaces of your sliding door track, causing the door to become stuck or become difficult to open. To avoid these issues it is recommended to vacuum and clean your patio door tracks once every month. After you've cleared all the debris that has accumulated then you can use a non-abrasive household cleaning solution or warm soapy water to wipe down your patio door tracks. If you notice that certain parts of the track are more difficult to clean, try using a butter knife or an old toothbrush to clean out these tiny areas.
In addition to cleaning the tracks, it is recommended to lubricate them regularly to prevent sliding doors from squeezing or becoming difficult to open. If you have Panda patio doors, it is recommended that you add silicone spray to the bottom track on a frequent basis. You can also use paraffin wax to increase the glide.
Another common issue that can affect your sliding patio door is air leak or draft. This may occur when the weather stripping on your sliding patio door has damaged or worn out. This can result in a gap between the door and frame, which allows air to be able to enter and decrease energy efficiency. Make sure that your weather stripping is in good condition and replace it as needed.
With regular use your patio door will go through normal wear and tear over time. These problems are usually not an indication of a serious issue. Minor repairs can extend the lifespan of your patio door. Call a professional as quickly when you spot any issues to avoid costly repairs.
Glass that is cracked or warped
A patio door that's damaged or sagging is a real eye-sore and can pose a security risk. sliding patio door lock repair can also let in unwanted critters and make your home's temperature fluctuate dramatically. Thankfully, these problems are usually simple to fix if you catch them early.
A quick glance at the glass will help you determine what type of repairs are required. Generally, cracks in glass are the result of stress or impact. These are more difficult to repair than surface chips. A professional will probably have to re-lead the panel. This will require removing the glass, cleaning it, and replacing the broken pieces. To make sure that the new glass with the original, a professional requires accurate documentation of the appearance of the piece at the time.
Plastic epoxy can be used to fill a crack. It is available in a hardware store or in the home improvement section. A professional will use the soldering tool to melt the plastic and then apply it on the crack. After it has cooled, the professional can remove any excess.
If the glass crack is small, there may be a chance to repair it with clear sealant. This kind of product is available at any hardware store. It is important to thoroughly dry the crack before applying sealant. This will stop the repair from failing. A hair dryer or other fan can be used to speed up this procedure.
Weatherstripping damaged
A weather stripping that is worn out not only looks bad and poses a security threat however it also allows the outside air and heat to escape. A simple fix with a new piece of weather stripping will save you money and make your home more comfortable.
Make sure you have the proper tools and materials. You will need an additional weather-stripping kit, or adhesive or caulk sealing agent (depending on the repair method you select) as well as pliers and scissors, a utility knife and gloves or goggles that are protective and a new weather-stripping kit. Remove the old weather stripping by cutting one end piece, then pulling it up, along with any screws that attach it, in the event that they are needed. Then, gently take any remaining pieces in the pliers or pry bar.
Begin by measuring the gap around the door frame. Utilize the measurements to determine what size weather stripping you require. Make sure you leave extra length to allow for fine-tuning later. Once you've got the right size, place the backing and press it against the frame. If you want, secure it to the frame with a small nail or hammer.
Finally apply some wood filler to any divots or holes in the frame. Let the filler dry completely before painting. It is recommended to apply oil-based paint on the filler, but latex paint can also be used.
Last but not least, clean your sliding door tracks and doors regularly. By taking the time to do this can prevent the doors from sticking and other issues down the road. Maintaining regular maintenance and repairs to your patio doors will ensure they remain functional, attractive and energy efficient. You can save money while enjoying the great outdoors while doing it. Happy fixing your home!